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Circulate Capital is an investment management firm founded in 2018 to tackle the global plastic waste crisis. Headquartered in the United States, the firm focuses on financing companies and projects that aim to reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainable waste management practices. As of late 2023, Circulate Capital manages a total of $255 million in assets under management (AUM), reflecting its commitment to advancing the circular economy, particularly in emerging markets in Southeast Asia and Latin America.
The firm has established itself as a leader in the circular economy space, launching the Circulate Capital Ocean Fund (CCOF) in 2018, which was the world's first investment fund dedicated to preventing ocean plastic. The CCOF has a total size of $100 million, and the firm recently closed its CCOF I-B fund at $76 million in December 2023. This fund is backed by notable investors including the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Proparco, among others.
Circulate Capital invests in companies and technologies that are integral to the circular economy, with a particular emphasis on addressing plastic waste and promoting recycling. Their investment strategy encompasses various sectors, including waste management, recycling, and sustainable materials. The firm targets growth equity investments, with check sizes starting at $2 million, making it accessible for both early-stage startups and established companies.
The geographic focus of Circulate Capital is primarily on high-growth markets in Southeast Asia and Latin America. Their investment thesis revolves around providing catalytic capital to companies and projects that divert waste from the environment and ocean into the recycling value chain. This approach not only supports innovative solutions in waste management but also aligns with their mission to promote sustainability and reduce plastic pollution.
Circulate Capital has built a diverse portfolio of companies that are making significant strides in the circular economy. Notable investments include:
This portfolio reflects Circulate Capital's commitment to investing in innovative solutions that address the challenges of plastic waste and promote sustainable practices across various regions.
Nick Moon: Chair of Circulate Capital, Nick has extensive experience in investment management and sustainability. He has played a pivotal role in shaping the firm's investment strategy and focus on the circular economy.
To pitch Circulate Capital, founders should use the contact form available on their website. It is essential to include a comprehensive deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and alignment with sustainability goals. Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks.
Circulate Capital has launched a $65 million initiative focused on Latin America and the Caribbean, aimed at combating plastic pollution and enhancing recycling infrastructure in these regions. This initiative reflects their commitment to addressing the challenges of plastic waste on a global scale.
Circulate Capital has been active in expanding its investment platform, recently exceeding its target to raise $220 million for Asia Fund II. In December 2023, they announced the final close of their CCOF I-B fund at $76 million, which was led by the IFC and Proparco. Additionally, the firm appointed a Chief Investment Officer and promoted three partners to strengthen their investment capabilities.
What are Circulate Capital's investment criteria?
Circulate Capital focuses on companies involved in the circular economy, particularly those addressing plastic waste and promoting recycling. They invest in sectors such as waste management, recycling, and sustainable materials, targeting both early-stage startups and established companies.
How can I pitch to Circulate Capital?
Founders interested in pitching to Circulate Capital should prepare a detailed presentation that outlines their business model, market potential, and alignment with the firm's focus on sustainability and the circular economy. A contact form is available on their website for funding applications.
What makes Circulate Capital different from other investors?
Circulate Capital is unique in its dedicated focus on the circular economy and sustainable waste management. Their investment strategy is specifically designed to address the global plastic waste crisis, providing catalytic capital to companies that divert waste from the environment.
What is the geographic scope of Circulate Capital's investments?
The firm primarily targets high-growth markets in Southeast Asia and Latin America, where the need for sustainable waste management solutions is critical.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Circulate Capital typically invests with check sizes starting at $2 million, allowing them to support a range of companies from early-stage startups to more established firms.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive?
Circulate Capital provides not only financial support but also strategic guidance and access to a network of partners and resources focused on sustainability and the circular economy.
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